Job Type
Full-time
Description
PURPOSE:
The Manufacturing Engineer is responsible for developing, implementing, and improving manufacturing processes for both new and existing products. This role focuses on Lean Manufacturing, automation integration, and continuous improvement to enhance safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
The position supports new product development (NPD) and the transition of designs into production, while also optimizing legacy processes through data-driven problem solving, advanced manufacturing technologies, and design for manufacturability principles.
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
Process Development & New Product Development (NPD)
Support the development and transition of new products into production, ensuring manufacturability and process readiness
Collaborate with design engineering to incorporate Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Automation (DFA) principles
Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and technical evaluations
Develop and qualify manufacturing processes, tooling, and equipment
Lean Manufacturing & Continuous Improvement
Identify and eliminate waste using Lean tools such as value stream mapping, line balancing, and standardized work
Convert batch processes into continuous flow operations aligned to takt time
Lead and support root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to resolve production issues
Drive process capability improvements, scrap reduction, and productivity gains
Automation & Technology Integration
Support the evaluation, selection, and implementation of automation and robotic systems
Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and quality through automation and AI-driven solutions
Work with equipment suppliers and internal teams to develop cost-effective manufacturing solutions
Production Support & Problem Solving
Provide daily technical support to manufacturing to resolve process interruptions and improve flow
Troubleshoot tooling, equipment, and process issues; implement sustainable solutions
Support supplier-related manufacturing and quality issues
Documentation & Standardization
Develop and maintain manufacturing documentation including work instructions, process flows, BOMs, and routings
Establish and improve standard work and best practices
Support PFMEA activities and risk reduction efforts
Analysis & Planning
Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and cost evaluations
Plan and execute experiments (DOE) to validate and improve processes
Optimize floor layout, material flow, and resource utilization
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with engineering, quality, operations, supply chain, and external vendors
Participate in integrated product teams to resolve technical challenges and improve overall product performance
Communicate effectively across all levels of the organization
Requirements
EDUCATION AND/OR PROFESSIONAL LICENSE(s):
Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial, Aerospace, Materials Engineering, or related technical field required
Advanced degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Lean Six Sigma) preferred
EXPERIENCE:
1-5 years of experience in a manufacturing, process engineering, or product development environment
Experience working in cross-functional or integrated product development teams preferred
Exposure to aerospace, defense, composites manufacturing, or automated production systems is a plus
Experience developing manufacturing documentation (e.g., work instructions, BOMs, routings) preferred
Proficiency with engineering and data analysis tools (CAD, ERP, MES, statistical software).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles (e.g., one-piece flow, takt time, waste reduction)
Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies (Six Sigma, DMAIC, root cause analysis)
Understanding of automation and robotic systems, with ability to support integration into manufacturing processes
Exposure to AI or data-driven tools for process optimization is a plus
Knowledge of composite materials, tooling, and processing techniques preferred
Ability to interpret engineering drawings, 3D models (SolidWorks preferred), and GD&T
Familiarity with New Product Introduction (NPI) processes and stage-gate reviews
Working knowledge of AS9100 or similar quality systems preferred
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
Hands-on approach with the ability to work effectively on the manufacturing floor
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with statistical tools (e.g., Minitab) preferred
Strong written and verbal communication skills
POSITION SUPERVISES (by department name or job title):
Individual contributor role
May coordinate activities with technicians, operators, and cross-functional team members
No direct supervisory responsibilities
CONTACT WITH OTHERS:
Frequent interaction with engineering, operations, quality, and supply chain teams
Regular communication with suppliers and occasional interaction with customers
PHYSICAL / WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Combination of office and manufacturing floor environment
Exposure to varying temperatures, noise levels, and production conditions
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and perform typical physical activities (standing, walking, bending, etc.)
TRAVEL:
Limited travel required
LOCATION: Gentex's Carbondale facility is located in Northeastern Pennsylvania in Lackawanna County. Carbondale, PA is about twenty miles north of Scranton, PA, 50 miles south of Binghamton, NY, and about 125 miles from New York City and Philadelphia. The area hosts numerous nearby state parks, nature preserves and local colleges and universities, including The University of Scranton and Marywood University. Northeast Pennsylvania is a beautiful area and offers an excellent cost of living. It is a great place to work, recreate, meet people, raise a family and live!
Gentex Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard for any applicable state or federal protected class. Gentex is an E-Verify Participant. Pre-employment drug/alcohol/background screening is required.